I use a Pace ST50 with a TD100 soldering iron and have to say this is hands down the best soldering iron I have ever used. The tip and heating element are all one piece which contributes substantially to the heating times and small penlike size of the iron; from room temp (65F) to operational and stable at 600F, is less than 6 seconds. I can solder with this all day without fatigue and there is no heat transfer to the handle portion of the iron ... best part, it's actually made in the USA, I simply love it.